Our Family'S Favorite Chili
A hearty, flavorful chili with ground beef, kidney beans, and rich spices, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a warm, comforting taste of classic American cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground round; drain and rinse with hot tap water.
- In a large pan or crock-pot, combine the browned ground round with the rest of the ingredients.
- Simmer on the stove top for 3 hours, covered, or cook in a crock-pot on low for 10 to 12 hours, or on high for 5 to 6 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the chili powder and omit the red pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground round for a lighter option. Additionally, using canned diced tomatoes can enhance the texture. This recipe also works well with vegan recipes by replacing the meat with lentils or additional beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili with a dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top for added richness. Fresh cilantro or green onions also make great garnishes. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or tortilla chips for a complete meal. For a unique twist, try it alongside Maryland Fried Chicken From The Chesapeake for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help restore consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Our Family'S Favorite Chili contains roughly 1610 calories, with 121g protein, 199g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (260% of the Daily Value), protein (242% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 635mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and consider adding extra broth or water if it thickens too much overnight.
Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground round with a mix of your favorite beans, such as black beans and pinto beans, or even lentils. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added texture and nutrition.
What can I serve with this chili?
Chili is versatile! Consider pairing it with cornbread, rice, or tacos for a fun meal. A simple side salad or coleslaw can also complement the dish well. For drinks, lemonade ice tea or a light beer can cut through the richness and enhance your dining experience.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).